Cricket, the British heritage
This game, which remains an enigma for us mainlanders, is the most lasting trace of the British presence on the island. And the least we can say is that it is very popular. Not a single remote village does not have its own putting green, where sometimes ragged children practice their ball striking. On the beach or even on the road, any flat surface is good for practicing! All the matches taking place in the four corners of the world are permanently broadcasted on television and mobilize the attention of the Sri Lankans for whole afternoons, including at work. The national team was world champion in 1996 and has been playing since 2011 in the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium, built when Sri Lanka hosted the world tournament.
On the water or underwater, sensations and discoveries guaranteed
Surfing.Arugam Bay, in the south-east of the country, is the place to be for surfers. The best time to surf is between April and October. You can also enjoy the waves of Hikkaduwa, south of Colombo. The rollers are less generous but the access is easier.
Scuba diving. If you prefer scuba diving, head to the west coast and most of the coastal villages from Bentota to Mirissa, where you will find diving schools (PADI or SSI certified) that offer courses and equipment for rent. On the east coast, diving is practiced off Nilaveli, especially around Pigeon Island National Park. You can also enjoy nice trips with just fins, mask and snorkel.
Rafting and canyoning are practiced on the Kelani Ganga River, between Nuawara Eliya and Colombo. Towards Kitulgala, the tour operators and receptives propose beautiful outings. From a simple walk to the descent of rapids for experienced rafters, everything is possible. Beware, the strength of the current varies greatly if you practice the river before or after the monsoon.
Cruises and whale watching
Often neglected by yachtsmen in favor of the Maldives, Sri Lanka is nevertheless worth a visit along its coastline. Long affected by the civil war, the east coast in particular, is today preserved from any tourist development; its long deserted beaches and its wild life testify to this. In June, cetaceans flock to the area and will remain there until early autumn. On the northwest coast, one of the most beautiful marine trips is undoubtedly concentrated between Tailaimannar, Jaffna, Delft Island and the striking Adam's Bridge, linking the island to South India by long sandbanks. In the south, the coastline between Galle and Mirissa is also a great place for boating; whales are present from November to April.
Unmissable hikes
With its mountain range that runs from north to south across the center of the island, Sri Lanka offers beautiful trekking opportunities to enjoy sumptuous landscapes. The ascent ofAdam's Peak (Sri Pada), the most sacred mountain, is done at night with Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist pilgrims. After 5,550 steps in the legs, the sun rising on "the tear of India" is worth all the rewards. It is another great destination for hiking. Ella Rock, Little Adam's Peak, are among the most popular walks in the region. Waterfalls and nature are the order of the day. And for those who prefer to walk at a more leisurely pace, following the railroad tracks that wind through the tea plantations offers an exotic and beautiful walk. One of the most beautiful and spectacular hikes is the Horton Plains. Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be visited on foot and early in the morning. The well-marked trail passes through crisp grass plains, rainforests, over a river and leads to a rocky peak with a magnificent view. Hiking in Sri Lanka requires good physical fitness, but no special skills. The highest peaks rise to just over 2,000 meters. You just need to bring some appropriate clothing, including a good fleece for the ascent of Adam's Peak.
Go on a safari
The Sri Lankan government had the happy initiative to create many national parks, all reopened since the end of the war, where the fauna and flora are protected. Sri Lanka is the first country in the world to have established reserves to preserve its nature, nearly 400 years before our era! The observation of animals in their natural habitat is therefore an essential step of a trip to Sri Lanka. You can go on the trail of the elephant, the leopard, the bear, or even go to sea to see whales, dolphins and turtles.
Beautiful golf greens
If you love the little white ball, there is no doubt that you will love the little town of Nuwara Eliya! With its very British looking houses, its green hills covered with tea fields and the 18-hole Nuwara Eliya Golf Club located at 1,890 m above sea level, the setting is idyllic. The green, ideal in dry periods, is quite soggy during the rainy season. Another golf course awaits you in Colombo, the Royal Colombo Golf Club. It is the oldest course on the island and offers the opportunity to see its fairway crossed by the train! In Kandy, the Victoria Golf & Country Resort has probably the most beautiful course with beautiful landscapes; the most recent and the longest too: 6,290 m when the others do not exceed 5,800 m of course.
Ayurvedic medicine, massages and meditation
Ayurvedic medicine is not a folkloric discipline, but a science very much appreciated by the Sri Lankans. Many centers offer massages and herbal cures. It is important to find out about the seriousness of the establishment before considering a treatment. Many hotels and resorts also offer yoga sessions by the pool. Meditation can be practiced in Buddhist monasteries. For those who love relaxation and well-being!
